Happy Muslim Mama: Small Kindnesses

As Muslim’s we often talk about good deeds and the small things we can do to make a difference and that also act as dawah.It’s nice though when someone also does this for us. I was reminded today when I had a nasty coughing fit that ten minutes later was still going strong ( I should have gone for a walk and coughed somewhere else, but have been hacking away for the last few days, so just gave up and sat there).One of my new colleagues who I haven’t really gotten to know brought over a mug of hot water and a box of herbal teas and urged me to choose one. I was a bit embarrassed, but rather moved at her very sweet gesture.Then on the way home today, I got on the bus only to realise I had forgotten to put money on my pass that morning and was stranded in the middle of no-where with no cash, no shops and no cash machine. Luckily the bus driver was Muslim and quietly waved me on so that I get off near civilisation and put money on my pass.Sometimes all it does take is a very small act – a smile, an offer of tea or coffee, stopping for a moment to ask how someone is, a small compliment.One of my dearest colleagues has just returned from nursing her seriously ill mother and mentioned that she hadn’t laughed in a long time. I realised after I had been ill for months and my sisters made me laugh myself silly, how medicinal laughter is. So I think I will be taking her for a walk and a good laugh tomorrow. What small gesture will you make today?

“(Each one) of you should save himself from the fire by giving even half of a date (in charity). And if you do not find a half date, then (by saying) a pleasant word (to your brethren).” ~ Bukhari (2:394)

“Your smile for your brother is Sadaqah. Your removal of stones, thorns or bones from the paths of people is Sadaqah. Your guidance of a person who is lost is Sadaqah” ~ Bukhari